Every caregiver should obtain some CPR training at some point in their life to be ready to save those they care for. The reason is that the heart is a vital organ that can fail at any time. Often, cardiac arrest happens without any warning, and this is where home treatment comes in handy. Whether the people you are looking after have had previous heart problems or not, parents, nannies, or caregivers should learn how to give heart first aid at home.
How to help cardiac arrest patients
If you were talking to someone, and they suddenly stop responding or moving or blinking, they could be having a cardiac arrest. If they are not gasping for air, they are not breathing. If you have never encountered this before, you may think they are already dead. Check their pulse.
Here are a couple of things you can do to save them before the 911 response team arrives:
- Administer CPR. CPR is a specialized procedure that is only administered by certified professionals. If you have CPR training, administer it as soon as you notice that the person is struggling to breathe or not breathing at all. Don’t worry if you haven’t taken CPR classes. The American Heart Association recommends that you perform CCR instead. This rapid hands-only compression technique can ensure the continuous circulation of oxygen.
- Get an automated external defibrillator (AED). Sudden cardiac arrest can be a real scare, but performing CPR until an AED arrives can save a life. In case of an emergency cardiac arrest, the only thing that can resuscitate a patient is an AED. However, let the response team find you administering CPR.
As cardiac arrest patients grow old, the chances of developing ventricular fibrillation also increase. You can easily access an automated AED in a mall, airport, and other public places. If someone collapses near you, reach for an AED near you to save their life. However, if you do not understand how to use one, or do not have access to one, wait until the medical staff comes. Notify paramedics on 911 about the emergency and ask them to bring an AED.
Where can you learn about managing CPR at home?
Paramedics and police officers are usually the first responders in emergencies. If you plan to pursue this line of profession, you need to take CPR classes. Other professionals that require CPR certification include respiratory therapists, nurses, nursing assistants, paramedics, and occupational therapists, among others.
Citywide CPR is an authorized training center that aims to equip caregivers with life-saving skills to help heart patients in America. Visit our training portal to enroll in our video-based classes. You’ll learn the different CPR techniques for different types of patients and obtain a certificate at the end of the program. You can also receive first aid training at an AHA kiosk near you. General first aid skills from Red Cross can also help you take care of heart patients who incur injuries during emergency attacks.
